"He's the signing of the day," offered former Manchester United midfielder turned commentator Phil Neville when speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live during the aftermath of deadline day activity, yesterday.

Neville, 37, was not commenting on the Old Trafford club's acquisition of Radamel Falcao for a season-long loan deal, but rather Arsenal's ability to capture Danny Welbeck, 23, a Mancunian who, after 13 years of service in the North West, was sold to the North Londoners.

Arsenal conducted good business in the transfer window with a total of five senior level players integrating into the set-up at London Colney, ahead of an arduous task ahead on September 13, when their championship mettle will be tested against title holders Manchester City.

While most pundits would be more comfortable backing Arsenal for sustained title challenge had the board ratified a deal for a quality centre back and a holding midfielder, Neville believes it is Welbeck who can help return the Gunners to the top of the table.